on February 28th, 2012

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Feb

Yesterday was Oscar day. Even though, the biggest night in Hollywood had not yet started, I decided to celebrate the winners while cruising on the Pacific Ocean.

There was only one way to do it for me: sabraging a bottle of Champagne with a backdrop that was worthy of the stars walking the red carpet. Yury Scheffler, the Russian vodka tycoon (Stolichnaya and Moskovskaya, among others), made it easy for me: his 134-meters (440-foot) yacht, Serene, was anchored in Santa Monica Bay.

on February 26th, 2012

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Feb

Frédéric Lefèbvre with Sophie Gayot

To celebrate the rich diversity of the French gastronomic tradition, Frédéric Lefebvre, French Secretary of State for Trade, SMEs, Services, Tourism, the Professions and Consumption, created La Fête de la Gastronomie last year. I had met Mr. Lefebvre last year at Les Etoiles de Mougins, during the 6th Festival International de la Gastronomie.

on February 17th, 2012

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Feb

Chefs William Siew (left) & Maswin Sukotjo with Sophie Gayot

Many Vegas visitors never leave The Strip, and don’t realize what they’re missing. There are peaceful places to stay just a short distance away. One of these relaxing spots I got to experience recently was the JW Marriott Las Vegas Resort, Spa & Golf, located in Summerlin. The spa, the gardens and the golf courses, surrounding the property, are certainly a good way to get away from the hustle and bustle of the Vegas Strip.

You don’t have to fight the traffic jams to eat well, either. I dined at Shizen, one of the four on-site restaurants. Chef William Siew oversees the menu while teppanyaki chefs handle the spatulas and fire at the grills. Sitting at one of those tables is for sure some Sin City excitement. And unlike sitting at a craps table, you can’t lose!